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Smart environments are currently being developed — such an example is the EasyLiving project at Microsoft Research. In these spaces both occupants and objects are sensed by ubiquitous computing devices embedded within the environment. So, as occupants strive to communicate with their surroundings, interface design becomes critical.

Within the smart environment there may exist a multitude of sensor types. In the EasyLiving paper entitled How a Smart Environment Can Use Perception, cameras, microphones, active badges and pressure sensing floors are all listed as sensing devices. Of course, the list goes on and on as new technology evolves; however, the main overarching goal for all devices is to develop the smart environment to detect both people and objects in “context”.(1)

This idea of sensing “context” means that a given environment can sense what goes on within it to determine an occupant’s given state over time. The smart environment reacts automatically to assist the occupant as certain objectives are targeted. Features like person recognition, person location, person activity and person expression may all be sensed by smart architecture trying to read its occupant’s needs.(1) Additionally, to help with this, objects may be sensed within a given environment as well. Again, objects are sensed in “context” – two methods are object tracking and object recognition.

So, what happens to architectural design as environments become smarter? How will the user interface design of architectural features look and feel? What will happen to interior design and architecture as ubiquitous computing becomes more widespread?

Well, for starters, occupants will begin to communicate with their environments more and more. Occupants will gesture, for example, sending signals to their surroundings. And if occupant expression, gaze and speech can direct environmental features, then architectural design will have more transient states.(1) Thus, the advent of smart architecture brings with it greater potential for a more comprehensive composition of architectural space – including targeting all of an occupant’s senses.

Already, certain new technologies are emerging – such as new objects that can help occupants communicate with their smart environment. The “XWand”, for instance, can be held in different orientations that signal the environment to take action.(1) We are headed toward environments where everyday objects will ultimately take part in the world of ubiquitous computing. Embedded devices will be everywhere and most objects will take part by integrating more subtle and sophisticated design interfaces.

Perception will be two-way — not just from occupant to architecture, but also from architecture to occupant.

(1) Krumm, John, et al. How a Smart Environment Can Use Perception. Microsoft Corporation.

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Biofeedback works via the mechanisms of feedback within a system. This is when, during a process, information is given to a previous point to correct a developmental path. Feedback can be quite useful in a realm of areas, particularly when it comes to human health – as in “biofeedback”. During biofeedback, machines help patients to improve the performance of their body physiology by allowing them to train their bodies to respond to stimuli given by a special biofeedback device.(1) Thus, using feedback to optimize performance is a tool that I can see being useful when it comes to the design of smart architecture. Let me explain…

Embedded with sensors, a smart architectural environment and its many ubiquitous computing objects will have the ability to monitor occupant interactions. Such a collection of occupant information may be used to help meet a variety of human needs by detecting patterns or unhealthy behaviors. For example, smart architecture may be able to improve occupant health by making key suggestions at certain decision-making moments. Architecture would be using some principles of biofeedback to help its occupants during the course of their daily activities.

While occupants go about their daily lives, smart architecture could help occupants via its interactive features. It would work with occupants to help them engage in healthier behaviors. For example, using feedback, smart architecture could suggest healthier behavioral options to help occupants increase exercise, eat well balanced meals or improve sleep routines.

All in all, smart architecture can be used to improve people’s lives. From weight maintenance to heart health, from stress relief to stroke rehabilitation — smart architecture can make a positive difference. Just imagine being in an environment that helps you maintain, improve or rehabilitate your good health. When designed with such goals in mind, smart environments become healthy environments; however, smart architecture can benefit occupants beyond healthcare needs.

Smart architecture that utilizes feedback principles can also make huge differences involving other architectural design concerns. For example, using feedback can also make buildings more sustainable, the workplace more productive and schools better for learning. It seems that feedback can help architecture become even more functional as it gains more targeted and meaningful interactivity with its occupants.

(1) Chaves, MD, Jose. Biofeedback: The Therapy of teh 21st Century